Esther’s Kitchen Has Got the Sauce

Chef James Trees is back in Las Vegas, and he’s causing quite the buzz in the neighborhood with his new Italian outpost, Esther’s Kitchen.

Located at 1130 S. Casino Center Dr., the restaurant serves honest cooking that won’t disappoint. The value-driven wine list is also a gem for those who want to move out of their comfort zones and try Italian wines from lesser-known regions that are absolutely stunning. And you won’t find a bottle for more than $40.

Photos by Cierra Pedro

Cacio e pepe paired with a glass of pecorino (wine) from the region of Abruzzo

Dunes Hotel flatware

Fill your stomach with uni (sea urchin) on toast, which, by the way, Italians have been eating since ancient times. The fried cauliflower is light and tasty with anchovy, chili, garlic and capers. A simple but classic cacio e pepe is made with pecorino cheese and tellicherry peppercorn. While you swirl your fork through the house-made chitarra, swirl a glass of pecorino (wine) from the region of Abruzzo. Pecorino cheese and pecorino wine? Yes, that’s an easy-to-remember match. And make sure to try the market fish. The chef uses only bycatch, giving unwanted species the opportunity to showcase their beauty on the plate.

Do take notice of the water pitchers, plates and bowls, all made by local company Clay Arts. Then turn your silverware over to notice the reclaimed Dunes Hotel flatware, clearly engraved on the back. And finally, look above the bar to find a sign that reads “Make It Better Tomorrow.” Another reason to come back.

Photos by Cierra Pedro

This article originally appeared in Marisa Finetti’s Dish and Tell column on vegasseven.com. Read the full story, which includes dining highlights from across the Las Vegas Valley, here.